1979 BMW 320 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 541 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
